Nagaland takes ‘Travel for Life’ pledge on World Tourism Day

Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 28

Nagaland state has taken “Travel for Life” pledge on the occasion of World Tourism Day at Tseminyu on September 27 under the theme “Tourism & Green Investment.”

The pledge was administered by Kunal Jha, Assistant Manager, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India in the presence of Nagaland’s tourism minister Temjen Imna Along, MLA Jwenga Seb and several other dignitaries and public.

The minister and others appended their signature in support of the pledge.

The gathering have taken pledge to adopt a plant-friendly lifestyle during “my travel” and to encourage friends and family to adopt responsible behavior during travel.

It also pledged to respect local culture and learn about the heritage during travel, avoid single- use plastic and preserve natural heritage during travel.

Earlier, addressing the gathering as the special guest, Along expressed dismay over the excessive exploitation of the forest wealth and wild life.

In the past, he said the rich natural resources suffered extreme damage in the midst of adapting modernization and industrialization sans long term plan.

In this, the minister stressed on the need to adopt a comprehensive strategy to secure sustainable ecosystem, which would in turn fetch positive impact to “Green Investment.’

The minister also stressed on the need to take collective responsibility to take tourism industry forward.

Stressing on the need to exercise positive attitude, the minister said “Tourism can only grow if we are good.”

“Let us be positive people,” he said and also told the people not to politicize everything.

The minister praised Tseminyu District Green Initiative under the banner of Tseminyu District Committee on Green Growth and Sustainable Development Initiatives in pursuance of a decision taken during District Planning & Development Board meeting of Tseminyu in August 2023.

The objective is to make Tseminyu as the first model district for green intuitive in Nagaland.

Meanwhile, Along, who is also minister for higher education, informed that the foundation stone for Tseminyu Model College will be laid soon.

Later, the minister handed over Nagaland Tourism Award 2023. Best tour operator award to David Angami (India Trail) and best tour guide award to Asu Savino (Freelance Guide).

Along also gave away prizes to the winners of drawing competition on the theme “Harmony with nature.”

‘Tourism connects cultures, fosters understanding, fuels economic growth’

Nagaland Association of Tour Operators (NATO) president Kejaroko Pieru maintained that tourism is not just an industry but “it's a bridge that connects cultures, fosters understanding, and fuels economic growth.”

He said that tourism has the unique ability to transcend borders and bring people from diverse backgrounds together. “It opens doors to new experiences, broadens horizons, and encourages dialogue among nations. As stakeholders in this industry, we have the privilege and responsibility to ensure that tourism remains a force for good, “ Pieru said.

Pieru was the recipient of ‘Best Ecological Entrepreneur Award’ during the 18th Annual International Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Tourism Conference & B2B Networking event and the 3rd Eco-tourism Award Ceremony held in Luxor, Egypt this year.

“First and foremost, sustainable tourism practices must be at the heart of our efforts. We should commit to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of our destinations for future generations. Sustainable tourism not only safeguards our environment but also supports local communities and economies,” he said.

Asking the people not to forget the transformative power of travel, he said “ When a traveler steps into a new place, they are exposed to different ways of life, traditions, and perspectives. This exposure fosters empathy and tolerance, making our world a more harmonious place.”

In our role as tourism stakeholders, we must also prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Travel should be an opportunity available to all, regardless of their physical abilities, backgrounds, or economic status. By breaking down barriers, we can ensure that everyone can share in the joys and benefits of tourism, he said.

“Let us invest in responsible tourism, promote cultural exchange, and work towards a more sustainable and inclusive future for travel,” Pieru said.

Further, he appealed everyone to join hands in making “our state tourism a powerful economic force for the good of Nagaland and the world.”

Let us promote and create experiences in Nagaland that will leave lasting memories for tourists and visitors, strengthen regional and global connections, and build a better tomorrow for all, he added.

Yuva Tourism Club

Nagaland’s tourism additional director Veyielo Doulo requested the concerned school authority within Tseminyu district to form Yuva Tourism Club in their respective institutions.

The vision of Yuva Tourism Club is to nurture and develop young ambassadors of Indian tourism who would become aware of tourism possibilities in India, appreciate our rich cultural heritage and develop an interest and passion for tourism.

Participation in Tourism Clubs is also expected to facilitate development of soft skills like teamwork, management, leadership besides encouraging adoption of responsible tourism practices and concern for sustainable tourism.

Doulo also assured to organize training programme for tourist guides and home stay operators soon.

MLA Jwenga Seb, Nagaland tourism secretary Nchumbemo Lotha and Tseminyu deputy commissioner Dr. Tinojongshi Chang also delivered short speech.

The programme was chaired by Nagaland’s tourism director Keduose-ii Metha.